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What Is Hazmat Shipping? Meaning, Examples, Packaging Rules & Compliance Tips

  • LPS Industries
  • Sep 20
  • 4 min read

When you think of hazardous materials (HAZMAT), items like explosives and chemicals probably come to mind—but you may be surprised to learn that many everyday products are also regulated as dangerous goods. From perfumes, nail polish, and lithium batteries to cleaning agents, paints, and aerosols, these items require special handling and compliant packaging to be legally and safely shipped.

At LPS Industries, we specialize in custom packaging solutions for hazardous materials, helping companies navigate federal regulations, ensure safety, and avoid costly fines. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about HAZMAT shipping—from classification and compliance to packaging requirements and carrier-specific rules.


UN-certified hazmat packaging by LPS Industries, featuring durable barrier film bags with clear labeling, compliant with DOT and IATA regulations for safe transport of hazardous materials.

What Is Hazmat Shipping?

Hazmat shipping refers to the transportation of goods that are classified as hazardous materials—solids, liquids, or gases that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment during transportation. The process is highly regulated by U.S. federal agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) and includes strict requirements around:

  • Packaging

  • Labeling

  • Documentation

  • Employee training

  • Carrier selection

Failure to comply with hazmat shipping regulations can result in severe penalties, delays, and reputational damage.



What Products Are Considered Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are divided into nine classes under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines, ranging from highly flammable substances to biologically infectious agents.


The 9 Classes of Hazmat:

  1. Explosives – Fireworks, ammunition, detonators

  2. Gases – Propane, butane, compressed oxygen

  3. Flammable Liquids – Alcohol, gasoline, nail polish remover

  4. Flammable Solids – Matches, magnesium

  5. Oxidizers & Organic Peroxides – Bleach, hydrogen peroxide

  6. Toxic & Infectious Substances – Pesticides, medical waste

  7. Radioactive Materials – Medical isotopes, nuclear fuel

  8. Corrosives – Battery acid, cleaning agents

  9. Miscellaneous – Lithium batteries, dry ice, e-cigarettes

LPS Tip: Even if your product doesn’t seem dangerous, it may still fall under Class 9. Always review the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and DOT regulations before shipping.



Why Hazmat Packaging Matters

HAZMAT packaging is not just about containing a product—it’s about preventing accidents, ensuring legal compliance, and protecting the public and environment.

At LPS Industries, we engineer custom hazmat packaging that meets stringent DOT, IATA, and IMDG codes. Our packaging solutions include:

  • UN-certified packaging

  • High-performance barrier films

  • Pre-printed hazard labels

  • Secondary containment options

  • Moisture and vapor-resistant materials


Step-by-Step: How to Ship Hazardous Materials Legally

Shipping hazardous goods involves a multi-step process. Missing even one can result in serious consequences.


1. Classify Your Product

Start by identifying the hazard class and UN number (United Nations identification code). This is mandatory for documentation and labeling. Classification is based on chemical composition, physical properties, and potential risks.

🔎 Use the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for information like flash point, reactivity, and toxicity.


2. Choose the Right Packaging

Packaging must be certified and compatible with the hazard class. For example:

  • Steel drums or jerricans for corrosive chemicals

  • Plastic drums or HDPE containers for flammable liquids

  • Absorbent-lined boxes for Class 6 infectious materials

LPS Industries offers a full range of DOT-approved packaging options, designed to reduce risk and maximize efficiency.


3. Apply Correct Markings and Labels

Every hazmat shipment must include proper:

  • Hazard labels (diamond-shaped signs)

  • UN ID numbers

  • Orientation arrows (if required)

  • Handling instructions

Improper marking is one of the top reasons hazmat shipments are rejected or fined.


4. Prepare Shipping Papers

Documentation is critical. A compliant shipping paper includes:

  • UN number and proper shipping name

  • Hazard class

  • Packing group (I, II, or III)

  • Quantity and packaging type

  • Emergency contact information

  • Certification statement by the shipper

Carriers like FedEx and UPS require strict adherence to paperwork accuracy.


5. Follow Carrier-Specific Rules

Most major carriers ship hazardous materials, but each has its own guidelines:

  • UPS: Offers ground and air hazmat services with specific training programs and packaging rules.

  • FedEx: Requires pre-approval for some hazmat items and restricts certain classes for air transport.

  • USPS: Highly limited hazmat acceptance (e.g., nail polish or batteries). No international hazmat allowed.

  • DHL: Only accepts certain consumer commodities under specific domestic conditions.

🔒 LPS Insight: Always consult your carrier’s dangerous goods guide before shipping. LPS can pre-design your packaging to meet carrier-specific requirements.



What Are the Regulations for Hazmat Shipping?

1. 49 CFR – U.S. Department of Transportation

Outlines requirements for:

  • Classification

  • Packaging

  • Labeling

  • Shipping papers

  • Training and recordkeeping

2. IATA (International Air Transport Association)

Applies to air shipments and includes:

  • Lithium battery transport

  • Package design for cabin pressure

  • Carrier-specific air restrictions

3. IMDG Code

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code governs hazmat shipping by sea.



Penalties for Non-Compliance

Shipping hazmat materials improperly can result in:

  • Fines up to $81,993 per violation (or $191,316 for violations involving death or serious injury)

  • Product seizure

  • Revocation of shipping privileges

  • Civil and criminal charges for willful negligence

At LPS Industries, we help clients avoid regulatory risks with certified packaging and consultation that ensures your goods ship safely and legally.



How to Choose a Hazmat Packaging Partner

When shipping dangerous goods, your packaging provider must offer:

  • DOT-compliant materials

  • Access to certified testing

  • Hazard labeling and documentation support

  • Custom-engineered packaging for complex materials

  • On-time production and delivery

LPS Industries delivers all of this—and more. We provide hazardous materials packaging solutions for industries ranging from industrial chemicals and pharmaceuticals to consumer goods and e-commerce brands.

Whether you need UN-rated drums, printed warning labels, or secondary containment solutions, we’re ready to help.



Hazmat Shipping Made Safer with LPS Industries

Hazmat shipping doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right partner and compliant packaging in place, you can ship dangerous goods confidently while protecting your business from fines and delays.

At LPS Industries, we combine decades of regulatory expertise with high-performance packaging solutions engineered for the most demanding applications. From flammable goods and corrosives to lithium batteries and solvents, we deliver certified protection every step of the way.


Need help designing your hazmat packaging?

Contact LPS Industries today to request a consultation and ensure your hazardous materials are packaged to code—and delivered safely.



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